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Power Up: The Real Deal on Energy Drinks

Fitness
May 2, 2025 / VASA Admin
Power Up: The Real Deal on Energy Drinks

Whether you’re gearing up for a high-intensity workout or trying to power through a long workday, energy drinks can be a go-to source for that much-needed boost. But with so many types and ingredients, it’s helpful to know what’s inside your can and when it’s best to reach for one.

What Are Energy Drinks?

Energy drinks are beverages crafted to enhance energy, alertness, and focus. They typically contain caffeine, sugar, and a blend of other stimulating ingredients designed to elevate physical and mental performance. While some are high-octane formulas intended for maximum impact, others offer a gentler lift for those with lower caffeine tolerance.

  • High-Stim Energy Drinks: These drinks pack a serious punch, often containing 200 to 300+ mg of caffeine plus additional stimulants. They’re made for those who need an intense jolt—perfect for demanding physical challenges or long work shifts.
  • Low-Stim Energy Drinks: With 200 mg of caffeine or less, low-stim drinks offer a smoother rise in energy. They’re ideal for anyone who wants the benefits of increased alertness without the jitters.
Benefits of Energy Drinks
  • Enhanced Alertness and Focus: Caffeine is the star player here, acting as a brain stimulant that helps sharpen concentration and reduce fatigue.
  • Boosted Physical Performance: Pre-workout routines often include an energy drink for a reason. Caffeine has been shown to increase endurance, reduce the perception of effort, and improve reaction time—making it easier to power through a tough workout.
  • Quick Energy Surge: The combination of caffeine and sugar (or alternative sweeteners) can provide a rapid energy lift, making it easier to tackle the next item on your to-do list.
  • Improved Mood: Caffeine also stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that contributes to a more upbeat mood. This can help reduce irritability and boost motivation.
  • Potential Hydration Boost: Some energy drinks include electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which help support hydration—particularly during hot weather or intense workouts. It’s important to check the label though, as not all energy drinks include these ingredients.
  • Cognitive Support: B vitamins found in many energy drinks help convert food into energy and support brain function. These nutrients may improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance.
Key Ingredients to Know
  • Caffeine boosts alertness and focus, with content ranging from 80 to 300 mg per can depending on the brand.
  • Sugar offers a fast-acting energy source, though it can sometimes lead to a crash. Sugar-free options are often available.
  • Taurine supports neurological development and may help regulate energy.
  • B Vitamins play a role in energy metabolism and cognitive function.
  • Guarana adds extra caffeine from a natural source and may enhance mental sharpness.
  • Ginseng is believed to support stamina and reduce fatigue.
  • L-Carnitine helps the body convert fat into energy, potentially boosting endurance.
  • Glucuronolactone may fight fatigue and improve energy levels.
  • Electrolytes help maintain hydration and proper muscle function.
When to Reach for an Energy Drink
  • Before a Workout: Energy drinks can boost endurance and performance when consumed 15–30 minutes before exercise. They help you push harder and stay focused through every rep.
  • To Stay Awake: Whether you’re pulling a late-night work shift, studying, or driving long distances, an energy drink can help you stay alert and fend off fatigue.
  • Midday Slump: Afternoons are notorious for energy dips. A drink in the early afternoon (around 2–4 PM) can bring your mood and productivity back up.
  • Before a Mental Task: Preparing for a test, big meeting, or creative project? Energy drinks may enhance concentration and mental stamina when consumed 30 minutes beforehand.
  • While Traveling: Long flights or road trips can take a toll. A well-timed energy drink during a layover or driving break can help keep your eyes open and your brain sharp.

Fuel Up with REVIVE

When you’re ready to power up, don’t forget to stop by REVIVE right inside your VASA gym! We’ve got a full lineup of energy drinks to match whatever your day (or workout) demands:

  • Alani Nu
  • Bucked Up
  • Ghost Energy

Energy drinks can be an awesome tool to help you perform your best—whether that’s lifting heavier, studying harder, or just getting through a marathon day. As always, listen to your body, know your caffeine limits, and choose the right drink to match your goals and lifestyle.

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        GUEST PASS TERMS & CONDITIONS

        By accepting the guest pass, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions:
        ACCESS AND USAGE:
        a. The guest pass is valid for one-time use during the specified duration indicated on the pass.
        b. Access to the club is limited to designated hours and facilities specified by the club.
        c. The guest pass allows the guest to utilize the club’s equipment, amenities, and services available during their visit.
        d. All guests must be accompanied by an active VASA member at the time of check-in.
        ELIGIBILITY AND REGISTRATION:
        a. Guests must be at least 12 years of age. Guests ages 12-17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when using the club.
        b. The guest pass is non-transferable and can only be used by the individual named on the pass.
        c. All guests ages 18+ will be required to show a local government-issued ID upon check in.
        WAIVER AND RELEASE:
        a. Guests acknowledge and understand the risks associated with physical activity and exercise, and agree to participate at their own risk. Guests release the club, its staff, and affiliates from any liability for injuries, accidents, or damages that may occur during their visit.
        CLUB POLICIES:
        a. Guests must adhere to the club’s code of conduct and policies, including proper attire (closed toed shoes must be worn at all times in addition to shorts or pants and a shirt or sports bra), cleanliness, and respectful behavior towards other members and staff.
        b. Guests are responsible for any damages caused to the club’s property or equipment due to negligence or misuse.
        c. Harassment, foul language, threats, fights, and disruptive or threatening conduct will not be tolerated and will be grounds for removal from the club.
        d. The club reserves the right to revoke or terminate a guest pass at any time due to violation of club policies or misconduct at the discretion of club staff.
        MODIFICATIONS TO TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
        a. The club reserves the right to modify or update the terms and conditions for the guest pass.
        GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION:
        a. Any disputes arising from the guest pass or the club’s facilities and services will be governed by the laws of the jurisdiction where the club is located.

        GUEST PASS LIABILITY WAIVER

        I, an adult Guest or parent (agreeing on behalf of a minor child or ward who is a Guest) expressly accept and assume all risk of injury, illness, damages or death, known and unknown, inherent or not, for my use of and participation in any and all services, amenities, facilities, machinery, equipment, locker rooms, parking lot, lobby, and any other area located in and around the Club facility, regardless of whether such injury or damage arises out of or during physical activity, including, without limitation, any loss or theft of any personal property. I am fully aware that operation of gym facilities and participation in physical activity may be dangerous and involves risk of injury to my person. I agree that I have a duty to examine each piece of equipment or facility prior to use, and refrain from use and report the same to the Club if there is any indication that such equipment or facility has been subjected to abuse, is damaged, or is in an unsafe or potentially dangerous condition. If I am the parent of a minor Guest, I have discussed the activities, responsibilities and risks with the minor child who understands and accepts them, and I, to the fullest extent permitted by law, accept them on behalf of such minor child.

        I agree, on behalf of myself (or minor child or ward), my spouse, children, heirs and personal representatives, to forever waive, release and discharge the Club and its owners, employees, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of any and all injury or damage caused by the ordinary negligence of the Club or its employees, owners or affiliates, including without limitation, any claim, damage or injury which may occur as a result of any malfunction or breakage of equipment, the Club’s improper maintenance of any machinery, equipment or facilities, the Club’s negligent instruction or supervision, and any injury from slipping or falling while in the Club facility or any portion of the premises for any reason. I expressly agree to indemnify and hold the Club harmless from any loss, liability, damage, or cost the Club may incur due to my presence at the Club facility.

        BY COMPLETING THIS FORM AND SIGNING/INITIALING BELOW, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT I AM SURRENDERING MY RIGHT TO MAKE A CLAIM OR FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE CLUB FOR PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, WRONGFUL DEATH, PRODUCTS LIABILITY OR UNDER ANY OTHER THEORY, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW.

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